How cloud CRMs are impacting the demand for professionals

With more organisations making the move to the cloud, we’re seeing a number of our clients have successfully implementing cloud CRM systems, such as Salesforce. This is leading to a demand of certain skillsets. We spoke with Callum Gardiner, Senior Recruitment Consultant at Computer Futures, to find out how these changes are impacting the candidates and clients he works with.

The benefits of cloud CRM

One of the benefits to using a cloud CRM system is there’s no need for any specific software or hardware. Everything can be accessed remotely, making it far more convenient; all you need is a device that’s able to connect to the internet. It’s also incredibly fast and secure, helping to increase productivity.

Having a CRM system that’s easily accessible means you’re better able to communicate with your clients and customers effectively – plus you’ll be able to get real time updates on what’s working and what’s not. And it’s this real time analysis that enables you to constantly improve your communication methods.

“Since successfully implementing a cloud CRM system, a number of our clients have experienced a great return on investment. This is due, in part, to processes being refined and becoming more efficient,” says Callum.

Cloud CRMs, like Salesforce, require professionals

Not only do you need candidates in place to implement the system effectively, you also need people in place to make sure the system is maintained and updated as and when required. You’ll also need professionals who are able to analyse the rest of your organisation and determine whether processes can be adapted in other areas of your business. This is where companies are facing difficulty.

“Our clients are struggling to find skilled permanent candidates,” explains Callum. “Generally, consultancies take on more perm staff, while people look to hire contractors for the actual implementation of Salesforce.”

Cloud CRMs are leading to a demand of professionals

There are a number of skill sets and experiences that are in high demand as a result of cloud CRMs, such as Salesforce. These include:

Apex

Visualforce

Lightning and Front End Technologies

This is a skill set only for a Salesforce Developer. Interestingly, whilst it’s one of the hardest to find for permanent positions it’s often one of the easiest for contract. When it comes to permanent jobs, the difficulty comes in finding candidates to fill the roles. The opposite is true of contract positions; there are plenty of candidates but a lack of contract jobs.

According to a Burning Glass report, demand for Salesforce-specific jobs has quadrupled and demand for Salesforce administrators and developers has tripled since 2012. Due to this demand and the fact it’s showing no signs of slowing, we’re seeing organisations offering incredibly competitive salaries in order to attract the right candidates.

The future of cloud CRMs

Looking forward five years, Callum predicts we’ll see a few changes, saying “Salesforce will become quicker and more intelligent, thanks to new technology such as Einstein. There will also be more competitors and higher salaries.”

So if you’re considering implementing Salesforce or another cloud CRM, now might be the best time. Otherwise you’ll be facing even more competition in order to secure the best candidate.

Access our network of candidates now

Our team of consultants are working hard to build our ever-growing network of professionals. We do this in a number of ways, including getting the most out of social media platforms and attending and sponsoring meet ups (Awesome Admins, Salesforce Devs, Salesforce World Tours, London’s Calling, Surf Force, and more) and roundtable events.

If you’re looking for candidates to help you implement and maintain a cloud CRM system, we can help. Visit our contact page to get the details for your local office.